Palatal Expanders in Mount Pleasant, SC
A palatal expander, sometimes called a palate expander, gradually widens the upper jaw to create more space and improve how the upper and lower teeth fit together. At Mount Pleasant Orthodontics, we use expanders in a variety of situations.
Expansion can be beneficial for many reasons, including:
- Correcting a crossbite
- Creating space for crowded teeth
- Helping reduce the risk of permanent teeth becoming impacted
- Increasing the width of a narrow upper jaw
- Improving how the upper and lower teeth fit together
In some patients, widening the upper jaw may also improve nasal breathing, though results vary from person to person.
What to Expect
It’s normal to feel some pressure after turning your expander, and speaking and eating may feel a little different initially. A small gap may also appear between the front teeth as the jaw widens. This is a normal sign that expansion is working, and the space is addressed later in treatment.
Palatal Expanders in Mount Pleasant and the Charleston Area
Wondering whether your child could benefit from expansion? Schedule a complimentary consultation, and Dr. Schneider will evaluate their growth and development and recommend the best approach.
